The eagerly awaited rollout of the €50 million school solar panel program is finally underway, providing funding opportunities for schools in 11 selected counties. This initial phase of the scheme aims to assist schools in Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny, Leitrim, Limerick, Offaly, Waterford, Wicklow, and the Dublin City Council area.
Addressing Energy Bills and Emissions
More than a year after its initial announcement, the funding will support schools in reducing both their energy bills and carbon emissions through the installation of up to 16 roof-mounted solar panels per school, equivalent to six kilowatts of power. Presently, only 5% of primary and 10% of post-primary schools in Ireland have photovoltaic panels installed.
Long-Awaited Government Commitment
The school solar panel scheme was announced by the government in September 2022, with Minister for Education Norma Foley promising funding “in the coming months.” The delay in the disbursement of funds sparked concerns, but now, €50 million has been allocated to the program under the Climate Action Plan.
Financial Benefits for Schools
The Department of Education stated that the amount a school could save would vary, but on average, schools could expect to save between €1,200 to €1,600 per annum on their energy bills. Additionally, schools will receive funding to connect to the grid, allowing them to utilize unused solar energy, especially during the productive months of school summer holidays. Schools will be compensated for exporting excess energy to the grid.
Emissions Reduction Targets and Program Impact
While benefiting individual schools by reducing energy costs, the program aligns with the sector’s emissions reduction targets. The 2021 Climate Action Plan set a target of a 51% reduction in emissions for schools by 2030.
Addressing Delays and Future Implementation
Concerns about the delay in implementing the scheme were raised at an Oireachtas committee hearing last month. An Assistant Secretary at the Department of Education assured that the department is actively working through the practicalities and is eager to get the program up and running, emphasizing its positive impact on both individual schools and the broader education sector’s sustainability efforts.
Source: rte.ie
